Spotlights & Insights, Vol.6 – February 2018

So we’ve come to the end of the month and with it, the end of the Olympics.

As I slowly begin to return to my normal sleep schedule, I’ve found myself reflecting on the Games and the lessons they’ve left with me. Over the past two weeks of competition, I’ve watched both triumphs and misses – many athletes peaking at the right time to have the performance of their life, and others feeling off on what seems like exactly the wrong day.

Elite level athletes know that both these outcomes are possible in an intense competition situation, but their ability to handle both the thrill of the win or the devastation of the loss comes from having a strong and dedicated team behind them.

It’s about having people there who help them prepare – physically, mentally and emotionally – for the for all the ups and downs they may experience, and having people to help them rebalance and reset after a competition – whether they’re high on a win or on the floor from a loss.

In fact, no matter what type of performance we do (artistic, athletic, entrepreneurial etc.), the truth is that we are never doing it alone.

When you’re performing a solo show, standing alone on the stage in front of the audience, there’s still a team turning on the lights, directing you or giving feedback, and guiding the audience to their seats.

When you’re running a race, standing at the start line waiting to take off, you’re there because of the trainers that have prepped your body, the coaches that have prepped your mind, and the training partners that have worked alongside you as you sought to grow your skills.

So for this month’s wrap-up, I’ve put together a list of resources to help you start to build your own strong and dedicated team. It’s full of wisdom from inspiring performers of all kinds on techniques they’ve used to help them manage stress and anxiety, strategies that have helped them build lasting partnerships, and the relationships that have helped them stay grounded and centered through it all.

And if you’re looking for some extra support to help you reach your performance best, send me a message! I’d love to be a part of your performance team. ????

Olympic Partners, Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir – TEDxYouth@TorontoA wide-ranging talk on how the Olympic ice dance champions built a strong working partnership and overcame obstacles as a team. Hint: it’s all about effective communication!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NaMaM4orwIA

A Little Bit More…

For Snowboarders, the Music Matters as Much as the Gear – New York TimesAn interesting article that sparked conversation over on the Five Winds Facebook page! How snowboarders use music to help motivate them while they compete. Check it out and then head over to Facebook to read my thoughts on it and share your own. I’d love to hear your insights!https://www.nytimes.com/2018/02/20/sports/olympics/snowboarding-music.html

Trevor Noah on His Mom: “She’s the Example that I Live My Life By” – Oprah’s Super Soul ConversationsThe Daily Show’s Trevor Noah on the greatest teammate he has in his corner – his mom. What he’s learned from her life and how she’s supported and inspired him throughout his own.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5WzJQiB7UDw

P.S. Ok, one more Tessa & Scott resource – a short documentary on how they crafted their most recent free program routine, “Roxanne”, and the team (and teamwork) that helped prepare them for the 2018 Winter Olympic Games.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VytuMwew3-Y

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This blog is a part of my work with Five Winds. It’s a space where I share thoughts and insights on performing and wellness, and offer tips and ideas on how to stay balanced and healthy (body, mind, emotions and spirit) while living the life of a performer.

Find out more information about me here, or how to work with me here. To stay connected, subscribe to this blog in the sidebar or find me on Facebook or Instagram.

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Five Winds Blog

Hi! I'm Mairin Smit, Performance & Wellness Coach.

This blog is where I share thoughts and insights on performing and wellness, and offer tips and ideas on how to stay balanced and healthy (body, mind, emotions and spirit) while living the life of a performer. :)